THE BASSIC MARTIAL TECHNIQUE (TT)

Basically, there are three different types of punches in Muay Thai which can be directed in a horizontally circular, horizontally linear, or vertically circular fashion. The circular punches can be directed in either narrow or wide arcs. The Thai style punches can be compared with that of western boxing, however, there are no Jab maneuvers in Muay Thai because they are believed to be less effective than the Cross, Hook, or Swing.
Any person with a basic concept of western boxing will notice a variety of similarities within Muay Thai, however, applying western techniques will not always work such as ducking away from or under a punch, as this will allow your opponent to counter the move with a knee strike. Stepping forward with hands raised to protect the face in western boxing will allow the opponent to counter with a clinch allowing him to execute a variety of attacks with the elbow or knee.  Or will allow your opponent to counter with a  front kick, push kick or several low kicks.

Unlike most other martial arts, the shoulder of the attacking arm is usually lifted in front of the face in order to protect the throat, jaw, and cheek bone while the other arm is raised in a defensive position. The main target is the head of the opponent instead of the body so as to avoid being hit by a knee strike, however, the body can become a target. Remember that every punch is delivered with the twisting of the hips and the turning of the waist. 

As Thai fighters compete more against western fighters who are well adverse in "Queensbury" boxing techniques, the Muay Thai fighter has begun to use many of these boxing techniques to counter the strengths and abilities of the western fighter.     As Thai fighters compete more against western fighters who are well adverse in "Queensbury" boxing techniques, the Muay Thai fighter has begun to use many of these boxing techniques to counter the strengths and abilities of the western fighter. Although only a small portion of boxing techniques are shown here, Muay Thai has adapted many more punches and counter punches from western boxing. However, it has still retained its most basic format, omitting much of the standard techniques, allowing Muay Thai is  to successfully counter these with its own arsenal of  body defenses and offensive maneuvers.